If you are searching for the perfect holiday activities to entertain family and friends, look no further. This is a comprehensive list of available shows and events catering to the holiday season, the spread of Christmas joy, and the interests of all in our community.
Waco Wonderland will be hosted December 6th through the 8th in downtown Waco. This three-day day celebration, brought about by the City of Waco, the Downtown Public Improvement District, City Center Waco, and other sponsors, kicks off the holiday fun and cheer.
With a tree lighting, a firework show, a snow tube slide, a ferris wheel, and visits with Santa, this community-wide spectacle is a fantastic attraction for all ages. Be sure not to miss the Christmas Parade and Grouchy Santa Experience happening on Saturday night!
Cha Community x Designs with Jamie are overseeing the BIPOC Holiday Market on December 7th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This market will feature 15+ Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) small businesses, handmade vendors, and local artists. Cha Community is also providing a Buy One, Get One (BOGO) sale on boba drinks with the event, so sip and shop with the community at 1001 Franklin Avenue!
Waco Civic Theater is performing It’s a Wonderful Life: The Musical throughout the start of December. With shows from the 5th to the 8th, the 12th through 15th with varying start times, there are plenty of opportunities to see this classic Christmas narrative performed through song! Later in the month, join the Civic Theater for the Royce Montgomery Rat Pack Christmas and Rudolph: The Red-Nosed Reindeer. Show dates, times, and tickets are available on their website.
Waco Symphony Orchestra will be performing The Nutcracker, a treasured holiday tradition, on Saturday, December 14th at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 15th at 2 p.m. These shows will take place at the beautiful Waco Hall on Baylor University’s campus. After the Sunday matinee, meet and take photos with the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier Prince in Roxy Grove Hall.
The Waco Trolley Christmas Lights Tour is a ninety minute tour of the greater Waco area, displaying the greatest Christmas light assortments in our community. This particular tour will be hosted from November 29th through December 28th, with plenty of opportunities to snag tickets to this cherished event! The Trolley Tour takes the stress out of finding the best light displays, navigating through the slow vehicles, and crafting the delicious hot cocoa.
Cameron Park Zoo is inviting you to Wild Lights! This event will take place from November 29th through December 31st, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. each night. Experience the Cameron Park Zoo from a different light, with Christmas spirit floating through the park.
The Mayborn Museum will be recreating the holiday season in the historic village, with Christmas Lights in the Village starting on December 13th through the 15th. They will have a second opportunity to attend from the 20th through the 22nd. The Christmas Village will occur from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m each night, with creative storytelling and the beloved Christmas Train.
The season of thanks is in full swing, and as the day of joining and feasting approaches, we reflect and show gratitude for all that occurs for us. While it is easy to get caught up in the hustle of preparing meals, gathering with loved ones, and counting our blessings, this time is the perfect opportunity to give to those who may be struggling or in need. Volunteering during the Thanksgiving season is a unique way to experience gratitude and spread holiday cheer for others in our community. For ways to contribute your time and energy in Waco, here is a compiled list of volunteer opportunities searching for participants.
The Salvation Army is hosting Thanksgiving Lunch on November 28th from 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. at the Community Kitchen located at 300 Webster, Waco, TX 76706. While the first shift is already filled with eager volunteers, the second shift, working from noon to close, is still looking for several available contributors. Alongside the Thanksgiving Lunch, the Salvation Army will be hosting a Christmas Lunch on December 25th and continuing their Community Kitchen and Family Thrift Store volunteer opportunities.
Mission Waco will be hosting their annual Thanksgiving Lunch on November 28th from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the First Methodist Church of Waco. They will be hosting chapel the half hour before lunch with an hour of BINGO following! They are seeking volunteers to help prepare turkeys ahead of time, such as cooking, deboning, separating meats, and to assist with food preparation on November 27th. For information on volunteering please email Bailie Rouse at [email protected].
Food For Families is an annual project hosted by the Longhorn Council–Scouting America, H.E.B. Grocery Company, and KWTX News 10. With food pantries across Central Texas, this food drive collects non-perishable items and stocks the shelves of banks and pantries in our area beyond the holiday season. Join them on Friday, November 22nd for the 35th year of Food for Families. All food and monetary donations will benefit nine local food pantries. Their goal for this year is 550,000 pounds of food, and with your help, they will achieve that total! What’s Needed? Canned Meats, Tuna, Chili, Stew, Chicken, Canned Vegetables, Sugar, Corn Meal, Pasta, Pasta Sauce, Cereals, Flour, Peanut Butter, Dry Beans, Flour, Rice.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
Dozens of college students shuffle around tight corners of an overpacked shed, the twelve foot U Haul trailer filling the center of the space. Hockey players stand toward the trucks, heaving hot breaths into bright balloons, almost unrecognizable without jerseys, last names, and numbers. Ice Girls dance around the trailer, securing streamers to bare railings. Photos are snapped, videos flicked, and chats sent to the rest of our crew, informing them of the progress on our Homecoming parade float. The Baylor Ice Girls is a group of female supporters, cheerleaders, and organizers for Baylor Hockey, responsible for things such as filling water bottles between periods, creating care baskets for injured players, and bringing the spirit to every game. As the sun sets on float decorating, we add our final touches, preparing to party at sunrise the following morning.
We meet bright and early, but there is no light. We are simply there early, contemplating how Baylor’s Homecoming has been historically successful when college students are asked to be up before the sun. Loading our teams into two trucks and a trailer, we trek toward downtown for the celebration of the morning. With the parade flowing on Austin Avenue, local Wacoans line the streets of downtown. Children flock to the curb with buckets and baskets open, begging to be filled with candy. Parents and families sit back in lawn chairs, sipping on mugs of caffeinated fuel. Familiar faces of Baylor students are scattered among the crowd, avoiding the mass of bodies on campus.
Questions rise from the crowds as we pass, “Baylor has a hockey team? Is it ice hockey? Where do they play?” Yes, Baylor does have an Ice Hockey team! The current team was revived for the 2021-2022 season, successfully attracting players and fans for the last three years. Alongside this group, the Baylor Ice Girls became a social club for female Baylor students interested in hockey, aiming for the sport to thrive on campus. These two clubs run separately, but we deeply depend on one another for functioning.
Turning down 5th Street, the sun is rising higher, the music is louder, and the energy from our Ice Hockey float hits another wind. Bags of candy are tossed between trucks to prepare for the second wave of sugar-seeking children. We pause to rehydrate our fracturing voices and rest our sore limbs, worn out from screaming, waving, and throwing sweets through the procession. Hours of preparation flew by with the parade ending before we knew it.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
Last weekend, on October 19th, Waco hosted two vibrant events: Out on the Brazos and the 13th Annual Brew at the Zoo, both celebrating community and connection.
Out on the Brazos is an annual celebration hosted by the Waco Pride Network that brings together members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies for a day of festivity, connectivity, and empowerment. Cars spread across the fields at Brazos Park East. Washes of color splashed across the greenery of the Brazos, with a rainbow arch guiding the brilliantly dressed patrons to a sea of tents. Vendor booths at Out on the Brazos featured immaculate, hand-made artwork, jewelry, and baked goods from Queer and allied creators.
Competitors gathered around cornhole boards, children flooded the bouncy houses, and live musicians rocked the outdoor stage. Alongside the local crafters, informational tents provided vital resources, knowledge, and necessary goods, with Planned Parenthood and the Animal Birth Control Center both present as sponsors. Everyone present fostered the sense of solidarity and support. Veterans for Equality served as security for the event, emphasizing their role in allyship and activism. Food trucks circled the event while dozens of folks shopped and danced, beaming along the Brazos.
The party continued after a quick trip to the Cameron Park Zoo, where multiple local breweries were stationed around the Zoo for craft beer tasting and animal viewing. The event attracted beer enthusiasts and animal lovers alike, cultivating a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter, great conversations, and exceptional brews. Attendees enjoyed samples from well loved local breweries like Brotherwell, Southern Roots, and Waco Ale. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, the selections were diverse and delicious, allowing any palette to discover a new favorite.
Beyond the beer, the zoo showcased their incredible animal residents. Guests had the chance to stroll through beautifully lit pathways, taking in the sights and sounds of the zoo at night. Special animal encounters and educational talks added an engaging touch, highlighting the zoo’s commitment to conservation and the importance of protecting our planet’s wildlife. As the night came to a close, attendees left with smiles, new memories, and a renewed appreciation for both great beer and wildlife.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
What is OCD?
The National Institute of Mental Health defines Obsessive Compulsive Disorder as a long lasting disorder in which a person experiences uncontrollable and recurring thoughts, engages in repetitive behaviors, or both. These repetitive thoughts, known as obsessions, can take the form of unwanted, disturbing thoughts called intrusions. Compulsions are typically referred to as a symptom of obsessions. These actions and behaviors are the mind and body attempting to protect itself, alleviating stress by complying with the thought or avoiding it altogether. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder has been labeled as one of the leading debilitating disorders by the World Health Organization, with 30% of those diagnosed abusing substances, yet it is highly misunderstood and misrepresented in standard media.
Why does awareness matter?
During OCD awareness week, which takes place the second week of October every year, the focus is on sharing information, personal stories, and resources to help those affected by the disorder. Many misconceptions exist about OCD, and understanding the true nature of the disorder can help reduce stigma and cultivate empathy. By continuing discourse and raising awareness, we can encourage those struggling with OCD to seek help by letting them know they are not alone.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is highly complex and only affects around 1-2 percent of the population, yet it is a treatable, tamable disease. Obsessions and compulsions can cause dysfunction and fear in all areas of one’s life, with physical, mental, social, spiritual, and moral status under attack. This impacts the way an individual suffering from OCD understands their own identity. OCD is not simply being tidy or washing your hands frequently, and this watered down rhetoric invalidates the experiences of those suffering from this ailment.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
Lights dancing atop the entrance of the Hippodrome guided my path to the Cultivate 7Twelve storefront swarmed with chatting, huddled groups. Smiling faces waved me through the threshold into a stunning scene of artisanal colors, textures, and compositions. The Cultivate 7Twelve gallery features artwork that is rotated monthly to showcase the talent of many local artists.
The gallery also provides a retail space for artists to sell items such as stickers, pins, hair clips, and other stationary accessories. These images caught my attention first, begging me to read each hilarious tagline and design. I thought of friends and family who would absolutely adore these pieces, noting to shop here when the holiday season arrives. Alongside the stickers and journals, there are second hand clothing racks, various jewelry designs, and stacks of art prints.
The artwork on display for the celebration of 175 years highlighted some of the most illustrious, memorable landmarks in Waco. There were Lego recreations of the ALICO Building and Suspension Bridge, paintings of popular features throughout the area, and live music to accompany it all.
As I traveled around to each piece, feasting on my cheese, crackers, and wine, my breath was snatched by a depiction of the eclipse over Waco in April of this year. The large, black canvas held the sun’s corona dancing through glitter and golden specs of the darkened universe. It was gorgeous.
I was floored by the talent featured throughout the gallery, failing to wipe the smile from my face at every frame . Local artists undeniably know how to capture the radiant beauty of Waco. If interested in purchasing artwork from Cultivate 7Twelve, visit the location at 712 Austin Avenue, Waco, TX 76701.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
Every autumn, Waco transforms into a vibrant hub of culture and tradition as the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo rolls into town. This annual event, deeply rooted in Texas heritage, showcases the best of rodeo, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, here’s why you should mark your calendar for this unforgettable celebration.
A Rich Tradition
The Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo began in 1953, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Waco community. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the premier events in the state, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The fair not only highlights the agricultural heritage of Texas but also fosters a sense of community, bringing together families and friends for a week of fun.
Roping and Riding
At the center of the fair is the rodeo, where cowboys and cowgirls from across the country compete in thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. The atmosphere is electric as the crowd cheers on their favorites, crafting a true sense of camaraderie among the community. The rodeo showcases not only the skill and bravery of these riders, but it also acknowledges the deep-rooted traditions of ranching and rodeo culture that Texas is famous for.
Fun for Everyone
While the rodeo is a major draw, the Heart O’ Texas Fair offers a plethora of activities for all ages. From carnival rides to livestock shows, there’s something for everyone. Kids can enjoy petting zoos, face painting, and interactive exhibits, while adults can explore local food vendors, beer and wine gardens, and art displays. The fair’s bustling midway is alive with colorful lights, laughter, and the delightful sounds of carnival games.
Live Entertainment
Music is a key highlight of the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo. Each night features a lineup of talented performers, from local bands to well-known country artists. The concerts offer a perfect opportunity to kick back, enjoy some tunes, and dance under the stars. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local music scene and celebrate the Texas spirit.
Taste the Flavors of Texas
No fair is complete without food, and the Heart O’ Texas Fair does not disappoint. Indulge in classic fair favorites like funnel cakes, corn dogs, and cotton candy, or try something uniquely Texan, like brisket tacos or fried pie. Local food vendors showcase the region’s culinary delights, ensuring that every bite is a true taste of Texas.
Community and Connection
Beyond the festivities, the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo emphasizes community involvement. Local organizations and schools participate, showcasing their projects and achievements. This sense of connection fosters pride and unity, making the event feel like a homecoming for many attendees.
The Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and tradition. Whether you’re a rodeo enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, this fair has something to offer everyone.
Grab your cowboy hats, boots, and belt buckles, and get ready to experience the magic of the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo in Waco. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
Welcome to the Autumn season!
Here are all the fall festivities needed to get in the spooky spirit.
The Great Pumpkin… Patch
Central Christian Church has been “Waco’s Pumpkin Patch Church” since 2006. Their pumpkins will be arriving at noon on September 29th, which is when they anticipate opening the patch to the public. CCC’s pumpkin patch is open every day of October from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Pumpkins are priced by size, ranging from $0.75-$50, and cash and credit cards are accepted as payment. All proceeds benefit the children and youth ministries and other missions/outreach efforts. There is no admission fee to visit the Pumpkin Patch! They’re located at 4901 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76710.
The Western Belle Family Farm festivities will continue through November 2nd with interests for the whole family, including a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, animals, and live music! The Pumpkin Festival is open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They will be open on Fridays in October from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets range from $5.49 to $35.49. The address is 7929 Heritage Parkway, West, TX 76691.
Sancho Rancho will open every Saturday and Sunday of October from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. With a $30 admission per car, enjoy a hayride, ride a horse, feed the animals, bounce through inflatables, and hunt like an investigator. Make sure to test out your rodeo skills on the mechanical bull and savor flavors from numerous food trucks! The ranch is located at 981 Coyote Run in Waco, TX.
The Robinson Family Farm kicks off their Fall Festival on September 28th, opening their doors every weekend until November 10th. The $19.95 ticket will provide you access to pig races, ax throwing, corn cannons, and live music! Their new location is at 2651 Bob White Road in Temple, TX.
Cultivate12 Paint Your Own Pumpkin
Get ready for a night of fall fun at Cultivate 7Twelve Art Gallery with our Pumpkin Paint & Sip on October 10th from 6-8 PM! For just $20, you can enjoy a cozy evening painting pumpkins while sipping on your favorite drinks. No experience is required—just bring your creativity, and we’ll provide the rest. It’s the perfect way to spend time with friends, enjoy a fun date, or simply unwind in a relaxed, artistic setting. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!
Haunted Happenings
American Scare Grounds is a haunted house just north of Waco. Offering both fun and fright, the $25 entrance fee covers a bloody good time! The Scare Grounds are open every Friday and Saturday through the months of September and October from 7:30 p.m. to midnight. They will be operating under special hours the week of Halloween. They are located at 14656 I35 N Frontage Road, Elm Mott, TX 76640.
Waco Ghosts is touring through the city. On these nightly walks, participants are taken throughout the oldest sectors of downtown, discovering the stories of tortured souls in Waco. The tour starts at the Dr. Pepper Museum and lasts around an hour. Adults can hunt the haunt for $20. Children under 13 are covered for $12, and children under 6 can participate free of charge.
Oakwood Cemetery will be performing “Walking Tales” on October 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Historic interpreters will be stationed throughout Oakwood Cemetery, sharing stories of the times and lives of the renowned names buried at 2124 S 5th Street, Waco, TX.
Oktoberfest
Southern Roots Brewing Company will be celebrating their 4th annual Oktoberfest and 5th anniversary this year! From October 17th to the 19th, Southern Roots will have three fun filled days packed with activities, food, and beer. Scan the QR code on the flier below for more information. They are located at 219 N 8th Street, Waco, TX 76701.
Barnett’s Fest is happening from October 4th through the 6th. With contests, prizes, and drink deals, you do not want to miss the party! If you’re not into beer, award winning Barnett’s Pub has the largest selection of whiskey in the state of Texas. Find Barnett’s Pub at 420 Franklin Avenue, Waco, TX 76701.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
Election season is in full swing with candidates campaigning their proposed plans for our communities. Alongside the Presidential candidates, many Texas officials will also be on the ballot at the federal, state, and local levels. To find Texas offices up for election, click here.
September 17th was National Voter Registration Day, in which democracy is fully celebrated and promoted as a nonpartisan, civic holiday. Voter registration closes October 7th, with early voting starting as early as October 21st.
To register to vote, request a postage-paid application through the mail or find one at the county voter registrars’ office, some post offices, government offices, or high schools. You can also print out the online application and mail it to the voter registrar. Applications must be postmarked by October 7. The McLennan County Elections Administration Office (Records Building Basement) is located at 214 North Fourth Street Suite 300, Waco, TX 76701.
When you register to vote, it is typically maintained for life. For this election season, Texan voters should check voter registration status since Governor Greg Abbott’s voter roll clean-up that deemed more than one million voters ineligible, most who have moved or passed away.
McLennan County will have multiple polling centers across the region, with only particular sites available for early voting. To find the nearest voting center, view the website here. For all other voting concerns, please visit www.mclennan.gov. Election day is on November 5th, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Exercise your right to vote this November!
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is the President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024–2025 season.
The Waco History Scavenger Hunt, hosted by Waco History to kick off the celebration of the city’s 175th anniversary, began with beautiful weather on the weekend of September 7th, enhancing the enjoyment of our historical exploration. The morning started at the Saturday Farmers’ Market, where participants registered for the event, grabbed breakfast, and enjoyed live music.
The first stop in the scavenger hunt highlighted the early settlements on the Brazos, which included the Indigenous Waco tribe. This permanent settlement is believed to have been established as early as the 1700s, with the Waco people building bee-hive-shaped dwellings and cultivating crops such as pumpkins, lima beans, and corn. The Mexican government protected the Waco from a threatened raid involving Stephen F. Austin and his troops, which was ultimately resolved through a peace treaty. Over time, the Waco people were decimated and relocated by disease and white settlers, eventually being pushed to areas in Oklahoma.
This historical marker is placed outside the Taylor Museum of Waco and McLennan County History, which is currently undergoing extensive renovations to function as a research and learning center. The museum’s structure itself holds a rich narrative, as it was originally the first African American school in Waco. With a breeze flowing through the leaves of the massive trees, it feels like hallowed ground—an unexpected surprise in the midst of bustling Waco.
In addition to the Farmers’ Market and the Waco History Scavenger Hunt, the 2.4-mile open-water swim meet, “The Beast of the Brazos,” was taking place in the river that flows through our city. The Brazos River played a vital role in the development of Waco. Its shallow riverbeds allowed cattle drivers traveling along the Chisholm Trail to cross the 800-mile-long waterway. When the suspension bridge was constructed over the Brazos in 1870, the increased traffic brought immediate economic benefits, cementing Waco as the cotton and cattle capital of Texas. By the late 1800s, Waco was already rivaling the size of, offering ample opportunity, entertainment, and connectivity.
Soon, Waco became a hub for education. Baylor University moved from Independence in 1886, merging with Waco University. The resulting institution, centered in Old Main, provided classrooms, offices, and laboratories. Old Main was originally referred to as “Main Building” due to its central role in student life. Prior to the integration of Baylor University, McLennan Community College, and Texas State Technical College, the only educational option for Black Wacoans was Paul Quinn College, known as the “Athens on the Brazos.” Each of these institutions has significantly shaped Waco’s educational landscape.
After the Civil War, Black Wacoans pioneered their own spaces for opportunity, entertainment, and connectivity due to persistent racial discrimination. New Hope Baptist Church became a gathering space for African Americans and developed a renowned music program. The church nurtured talents like Jules Bledsoe, an international opera star. The current New Hope building, completed in 1923, stands as a symbol of resilience and optimism, as reflected in its name.
The Waco History Scavenger Hunt opened my eyes to many underrepresented and untold narratives of Waco. Gaining a deeper understanding of this city has fostered a greater appreciation for how our community has developed over time. Getting outside and involved in events like this is vital to cultivating community. Without participating in this event, I would not have witnessed the families, college students, and volunteers exploring the town to uncover stories that explain and shape their own experiences today.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is the President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024–2025 season.